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Houston Baddies Hockey #2
Can't Always Get What You Want
Next from USA Today Bestselling Author Sara Ney is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud romp packed with sizzling chemistry, sharp banter, and a no-strings fling that’s about to break all the rules. The follow up to Hit Me With Your Best Shot will leave you wanting more... There are two sacred rules in the Montagalo
Family comes first. Don’t date my brother’s teammates. Of course I went and broke both… It started with a little banter on a dating app. A teeny, tiny Flirty messages with Luca Babineaux, the sweet, charming—and stupidly attractive forward on the Houston Baddies—who makes sweat and bruises look so f’ing hot. One spark turns into a secret first date. A few kisses become way more.
Now I’m tangled in a full-blown secret romance and every time Gio walks into the room, I have a full-blown anxiety attack.
Dating in secret? Thrilling. Lying to my brother? Exhausting. Falling for Luca Babineaux obviously wasn’t part of the game plan. It never is, is it? He wants to go public with our relationship. I’d rather not.
Now I have to decide what matters keeping my promises to my dumb, overprotective brother...or choose myself for once.
All’s fair in love and hockey. Right?
Family comes first. Don’t date my brother’s teammates. Of course I went and broke both… It started with a little banter on a dating app. A teeny, tiny Flirty messages with Luca Babineaux, the sweet, charming—and stupidly attractive forward on the Houston Baddies—who makes sweat and bruises look so f’ing hot. One spark turns into a secret first date. A few kisses become way more.
Now I’m tangled in a full-blown secret romance and every time Gio walks into the room, I have a full-blown anxiety attack.
Dating in secret? Thrilling. Lying to my brother? Exhausting. Falling for Luca Babineaux obviously wasn’t part of the game plan. It never is, is it? He wants to go public with our relationship. I’d rather not.
Now I have to decide what matters keeping my promises to my dumb, overprotective brother...or choose myself for once.
All’s fair in love and hockey. Right?
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2025
About the author
Sara Ney
71 books6,744 followersSara Ney is an Amazon and USA Today bestselling author of new adult college and adult romance. Sexy and laugh-out-loud funny, her work includes the How to Date a Douchebag and Campus Legends series. Ney’s books have been translated into several languages for markets such as Germany, Italy, Brazil, French, and Portuguese.
Sara lives with her partner, Jeff, in a blended household overrun by four independent teenagers. At their weekly “Cute Date Night,” they discuss TV shows they’re bingeing and plot novels together, something Jeff is freakishly good at. Sara loves traveling, because it’s the only time she has the bathroom to herself.
Sara lives with her partner, Jeff, in a blended household overrun by four independent teenagers. At their weekly “Cute Date Night,” they discuss TV shows they’re bingeing and plot novels together, something Jeff is freakishly good at. Sara loves traveling, because it’s the only time she has the bathroom to herself.
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July 15, 2026
Can’t Always Get What You Want by Sara Ney
Houston Baddies Hockey series #2. Contemporary sports romance, romcom. Forbidden relationship and He Falls First troupes. Alternating POV and multiple time line. Can be read as a stand-alone however the couple from the first romance is included in this story and it takes place after that story.
The players on the Houston Baddies hockey team have been warned to stay away from the captain’s sister. She’s off limits to them.
Luca Babineaux is aware of the hands-off rule. He doesn’t think she knows he exists even though he fell for her before he signed with the team. When they match on a dating app, he’s ready to promise anything, including keeping it from her brother.
Nova Montagalo takes a chance on the dating app when one of her brother’s teammates shows up on it. Photos of a dog and not hockey has her making a match. But when they go past the first date, she’s adamant about keeping their dates a secret.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Alexander Cendese and Alexa Elmy in dual alternating POV chapters. Each had specific voices for the other they were able to switch seamlessly between. Their performances brought the characters to vivid life with emotions and banter that made me laugh.
My favorite thing in a story is humor and these two are able to make this audiobook sing. Absolutely kept my attention.
My only complaint is that memories back to when they first meet are sometimes had to discern.
Highly recommend the audiobook for the liveliness and humorous side of the story.
Humor, flirty banter, and he falls first are things to look forward to in this fun book. I loved his confidence in himself and his feelings. I didn’t like the secret but understood her not wanting to hurt her brother. Their first date location and how it proceeds is hilarious.
The second epilogue is a hook to the third book with Nova’s bestie.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and RBMedia.
Houston Baddies Hockey series #2. Contemporary sports romance, romcom. Forbidden relationship and He Falls First troupes. Alternating POV and multiple time line. Can be read as a stand-alone however the couple from the first romance is included in this story and it takes place after that story.
The players on the Houston Baddies hockey team have been warned to stay away from the captain’s sister. She’s off limits to them.
Luca Babineaux is aware of the hands-off rule. He doesn’t think she knows he exists even though he fell for her before he signed with the team. When they match on a dating app, he’s ready to promise anything, including keeping it from her brother.
Nova Montagalo takes a chance on the dating app when one of her brother’s teammates shows up on it. Photos of a dog and not hockey has her making a match. But when they go past the first date, she’s adamant about keeping their dates a secret.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Alexander Cendese and Alexa Elmy in dual alternating POV chapters. Each had specific voices for the other they were able to switch seamlessly between. Their performances brought the characters to vivid life with emotions and banter that made me laugh.
My favorite thing in a story is humor and these two are able to make this audiobook sing. Absolutely kept my attention.
My only complaint is that memories back to when they first meet are sometimes had to discern.
Highly recommend the audiobook for the liveliness and humorous side of the story.
Humor, flirty banter, and he falls first are things to look forward to in this fun book. I loved his confidence in himself and his feelings. I didn’t like the secret but understood her not wanting to hurt her brother. Their first date location and how it proceeds is hilarious.
The second epilogue is a hook to the third book with Nova’s bestie.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and RBMedia.
June 5, 2025
Spoilers below...
I rated this book purely on the entertainment I had while reading it. Also, because of Luca. That man is just a total walking green flag. 🥰
Anyway, Nova and Luca were hilarious together. 😂 I couldn't stop laughing like a maniac at the random topics and playful banter they always have. They could spin about anything and make it a fun and ridiculous topic. 😂 I can't think of anything better than reading two people who are at the same wavelength of craziness. And if at times they're not, one of them would try to step up to make sure the other feels understood and valued. 🥹
I love them together, especially Luca. He was honest and very much all in with her. He did all the right things to show Nova that she didn’t have to shrink herself to be appreciated for who she truly is. He's truly a good guy at heart. He's a bit cocky and overly confident sometimes, but you just can't help but laugh and enjoy his antics. 😂
As for Nova, I liked her in general. But I also really, really want to shake her so badly for hiding Luca and their relationship because she's worried about how Gio, her brother and Luca's teammate, would react. She's a grown-ass woman, so I don't fully understand the need to please her brother.
Again, I like her overall, but there were moments when she hurt Luca by not owning up to her feelings, and that kind of made me not like her as much. She didn't just deny her feelings once; she did it twice! 😒 Sure, she said sorry for both times; it lessened the sting, but ugh, Luca really didn't deserve that.
Tbf, for all of Nova's f*ck-ups, she took accountability for them and tried so hard to reach out to Luca each time. She was always honest, even if it was a bit late, and she explained her actions without making excuses. And when desperate times called for desperate measures, she did the craziest thing to make up for her mistake. It was cringey because public gestures aren't really my style, but others might find that romantic. Also, it did the trick for her and her apology, so I guess we have that. 😅
Anyway, I liked the entertainment. Some scenes were totally absurd and far too unbelievable at times, but that's the beauty of fiction. 😂 While the banter is fun (mostly), there are times when it feels a bit forced and doesn't quite fit the scene.
Also, I wish we'd gotten more about Lucas's background (I don't even know his age!). It wasn't clearly explained why he felt like his parents' love was conditional. It was just brought up in the beginning, but then it just kind of dropped off without any further explanation. As a reader, I feel that I learned everything about Nova's life, but not nearly as much about Luca. 🤷♀️
Overall, I liked it, and I can't wait for the next book. Poppy definitely seemed crazier than Nova; it makes total sense that they're best friends. 😂
Book info:
- Secret relationship
- Instant attraction
- Crazy banter! 🤣
- Sports romance (hockey)
- Teammate's/friend's sister
- No cheating, OM/OW
- No V
- Breeding (🤏, more like a thought)
- Open door spice
- Separation (3 days??)
- HFN (engaged)
Notes:
〰️ They met three years ago at an event. They felt an instant spark between them and ended up having a little conversation. But Gio made it clear to everyone that they should stay away from his sister, and Luca really took that to heart. But he said he's been a goner for her since then, but she was kind of off-limits. So, he didn't act on his feelings.
〰️ There's no direct confirmation, but I think while they acknowledged the attraction, they both lived their lives in those years. Nova had relationships, and even though there's no solid proof about Luca, I kind of get the vibe that he might've been with other people as well. He even said he had a girlfriend, although it wasn't mentioned how long ago this was. He didn't exude a hoe vibe, which I'm really grateful for. 😂
〰️ They never used protection. 🫣 Well, they've both said they're clean, and she's on BC, but I still would've wanted to know that they've never done this with anyone before. But again, there's no confirmation on that. 🤷♀️
〰️ The epilogue was always lacking for me. I'm just greedy, and I wanted to see the MCs years down the line. I wanted to know if they're really going to have five kids! 🤣 Luca said he wanted to have that much. It would've been nice to know that's really the case. 😂 But I have a feeling that Nova will be on board with it, so in my delusional head I'm going to assume that's their future. 🤣
I rated this book purely on the entertainment I had while reading it. Also, because of Luca. That man is just a total walking green flag. 🥰
Anyway, Nova and Luca were hilarious together. 😂 I couldn't stop laughing like a maniac at the random topics and playful banter they always have. They could spin about anything and make it a fun and ridiculous topic. 😂 I can't think of anything better than reading two people who are at the same wavelength of craziness. And if at times they're not, one of them would try to step up to make sure the other feels understood and valued. 🥹
I love them together, especially Luca. He was honest and very much all in with her. He did all the right things to show Nova that she didn’t have to shrink herself to be appreciated for who she truly is. He's truly a good guy at heart. He's a bit cocky and overly confident sometimes, but you just can't help but laugh and enjoy his antics. 😂
As for Nova, I liked her in general. But I also really, really want to shake her so badly for hiding Luca and their relationship because she's worried about how Gio, her brother and Luca's teammate, would react. She's a grown-ass woman, so I don't fully understand the need to please her brother.
Again, I like her overall, but there were moments when she hurt Luca by not owning up to her feelings, and that kind of made me not like her as much. She didn't just deny her feelings once; she did it twice! 😒 Sure, she said sorry for both times; it lessened the sting, but ugh, Luca really didn't deserve that.
Tbf, for all of Nova's f*ck-ups, she took accountability for them and tried so hard to reach out to Luca each time. She was always honest, even if it was a bit late, and she explained her actions without making excuses. And when desperate times called for desperate measures, she did the craziest thing to make up for her mistake. It was cringey because public gestures aren't really my style, but others might find that romantic. Also, it did the trick for her and her apology, so I guess we have that. 😅
Anyway, I liked the entertainment. Some scenes were totally absurd and far too unbelievable at times, but that's the beauty of fiction. 😂 While the banter is fun (mostly), there are times when it feels a bit forced and doesn't quite fit the scene.
Also, I wish we'd gotten more about Lucas's background (I don't even know his age!). It wasn't clearly explained why he felt like his parents' love was conditional. It was just brought up in the beginning, but then it just kind of dropped off without any further explanation. As a reader, I feel that I learned everything about Nova's life, but not nearly as much about Luca. 🤷♀️
Overall, I liked it, and I can't wait for the next book. Poppy definitely seemed crazier than Nova; it makes total sense that they're best friends. 😂
Book info:
- Secret relationship
- Instant attraction
- Crazy banter! 🤣
- Sports romance (hockey)
- Teammate's/friend's sister
- No cheating, OM/OW
- No V
- Breeding (🤏, more like a thought)
- Open door spice
- Separation (3 days??)
- HFN (engaged)
Notes:
〰️ They met three years ago at an event. They felt an instant spark between them and ended up having a little conversation. But Gio made it clear to everyone that they should stay away from his sister, and Luca really took that to heart. But he said he's been a goner for her since then, but she was kind of off-limits. So, he didn't act on his feelings.
〰️ There's no direct confirmation, but I think while they acknowledged the attraction, they both lived their lives in those years. Nova had relationships, and even though there's no solid proof about Luca, I kind of get the vibe that he might've been with other people as well. He even said he had a girlfriend, although it wasn't mentioned how long ago this was. He didn't exude a hoe vibe, which I'm really grateful for. 😂
〰️ They never used protection. 🫣 Well, they've both said they're clean, and she's on BC, but I still would've wanted to know that they've never done this with anyone before. But again, there's no confirmation on that. 🤷♀️
〰️ The epilogue was always lacking for me. I'm just greedy, and I wanted to see the MCs years down the line. I wanted to know if they're really going to have five kids! 🤣 Luca said he wanted to have that much. It would've been nice to know that's really the case. 😂 But I have a feeling that Nova will be on board with it, so in my delusional head I'm going to assume that's their future. 🤣
June 10, 2025
Loved it! Luca and nova were pretty cute together!
I will say that I do think this book needed a little editing, although that’s not something I count stars off for. I think there were a few inconsistencies and errors. For example, they have the “do you want kids” conversation twice (each time as if it was the first time) and they both gave different answers in each conversation. In the first one, nova wanted kids so bad she considered having one herself and in the second conversation she says she does and doesn’t and would always say she didn’t. While Luca at first says he sometimes wants kids when he sees a dad with kids and that it looks cool, and in the second one he’s always wanted to be a dad and wants kids badly.
The author mentioned that nova and gio have each other on life 360, and there is a time that he asks where she was and she says she was home the whole time and he believed her. Which if he had her on life 360, he’d know that was a lie.
And also, and this might be a me issue because I don’t know everything about hockey, but I was under the impression that Luca was the backup goalie, as stated in the previous book, so I was confused why he was skating down the ice and scoring goals during games. Again, this might be a me just not understanding hockey thing, but I was confused about his position on the team.
I will say that I do think this book needed a little editing, although that’s not something I count stars off for. I think there were a few inconsistencies and errors. For example, they have the “do you want kids” conversation twice (each time as if it was the first time) and they both gave different answers in each conversation. In the first one, nova wanted kids so bad she considered having one herself and in the second conversation she says she does and doesn’t and would always say she didn’t. While Luca at first says he sometimes wants kids when he sees a dad with kids and that it looks cool, and in the second one he’s always wanted to be a dad and wants kids badly.
The author mentioned that nova and gio have each other on life 360, and there is a time that he asks where she was and she says she was home the whole time and he believed her. Which if he had her on life 360, he’d know that was a lie.
And also, and this might be a me issue because I don’t know everything about hockey, but I was under the impression that Luca was the backup goalie, as stated in the previous book, so I was confused why he was skating down the ice and scoring goals during games. Again, this might be a me just not understanding hockey thing, but I was confused about his position on the team.
June 2, 2025
Every Sara Ney book I’ve read, I’ve loved! I Can’t Always Get What You Want is no exception! I’m a total sucker for a sports romance, and if it involves hockey, I’m hooked. The storyline between Luca and Nova was cute, funny, and full of charm. Their banter was so entertaining, I found myself giggling out loud more than once! Sara Ney knows how to create lovable characters with chemistry that keeps you hooked. I’m already looking forward to whatever she writes next!
June 5, 2025
This was one of the cutest romance reads I have read in awhile.
I was smiling the entire time I read this and loved how this book felt like they were moving at this perfect pace in the relationship building, but they weren't in the actual progression of time. But it worked perfectly with how Sara wrote this story.
The chemistry between Nova and Luca is absolutely obvious and impossible to ignore. However, these two do a hilarious job of trying to ignore the obvious chemistry. Their banter is spot on with one another and the respect for one another just shows so much of their character.
Luca surprised me so much, it is impossible to not love this man. He is the perfect match for Nova. And the secondary characters - obviously Gio but Poppy - perfect addition to this story and I am craving Poppy's story next!!
I was smiling the entire time I read this and loved how this book felt like they were moving at this perfect pace in the relationship building, but they weren't in the actual progression of time. But it worked perfectly with how Sara wrote this story.
The chemistry between Nova and Luca is absolutely obvious and impossible to ignore. However, these two do a hilarious job of trying to ignore the obvious chemistry. Their banter is spot on with one another and the respect for one another just shows so much of their character.
Luca surprised me so much, it is impossible to not love this man. He is the perfect match for Nova. And the secondary characters - obviously Gio but Poppy - perfect addition to this story and I am craving Poppy's story next!!
June 5, 2025
Oh Luca, the man that you are....
I have been looking forward to Nova's story since the first book and it didn't disappoint. Nova and Luca had met before, so briefly that she barely remembers it. But Luca, he remembers all too well. He remembers the exact moment he laid eyes on Nova and when she matches with him on a dating app he can hardly believe his luck. Nova thinks it is a catfish because why woul LUCA be on a dating app? When she meets him out and realizes that things are all too real, now the bigger dilemma comes into play. How will she be able to date this man long enough to see if there is something more? Her brother has forbid her from dating his teammates and so they have to sneak around.
Luca isn't completely on board, but he will do anything to be close to Nova, which is absolutely endearing. Luca was all in, immediately, and I loved that about him. Nova took a little longer, and had a little more trauma she was dealing with, but their story was just so sweet. I laughed out loud at so many parts, which isn't uncommon reading a Sara Ney book!
I have been looking forward to Nova's story since the first book and it didn't disappoint. Nova and Luca had met before, so briefly that she barely remembers it. But Luca, he remembers all too well. He remembers the exact moment he laid eyes on Nova and when she matches with him on a dating app he can hardly believe his luck. Nova thinks it is a catfish because why woul LUCA be on a dating app? When she meets him out and realizes that things are all too real, now the bigger dilemma comes into play. How will she be able to date this man long enough to see if there is something more? Her brother has forbid her from dating his teammates and so they have to sneak around.
Luca isn't completely on board, but he will do anything to be close to Nova, which is absolutely endearing. Luca was all in, immediately, and I loved that about him. Nova took a little longer, and had a little more trauma she was dealing with, but their story was just so sweet. I laughed out loud at so many parts, which isn't uncommon reading a Sara Ney book!
June 8, 2025
This book was so sweet, hilarious and I loved every word of it. I love how Luca and Nova come together. It was surprising and very original.
I thought book 1 was good but book 2 seriously has my heart because the way they open up and become each others person….so cute! Luca….THE BEST. The way he has Nova’s back but I also loved how he stood up for himself and love that he’s a man who isn’t afraid to out his heart out there.
This book was easy to fall into and I didn’t want to put it down. A definite must read and one you will love.
I thought book 1 was good but book 2 seriously has my heart because the way they open up and become each others person….so cute! Luca….THE BEST. The way he has Nova’s back but I also loved how he stood up for himself and love that he’s a man who isn’t afraid to out his heart out there.
This book was easy to fall into and I didn’t want to put it down. A definite must read and one you will love.
June 5, 2025
Cute but not as cute as the first book.
Champion hockey player, Geo, has one rule, Nova, his sister, is not allowed to date his teammates! Yeah good luck with that.
The whole book is then Nova, dating Luca, undercover. However, Luca hates that he has been reduced to Nova's dirty little secret. And then the story seems to go nowhere from that point on.
June 11, 2025
Can't Always Get What You Want by Sara Ney
I loved this book it was fun and sweet. Nova and Luca are amazing! I mean couldn’t they be more perfect for each other. The banter and chemistry was off the charts. I loved the baby giraffe cup thing it was fun and a way to let Nova to let her guard down. The way they actually get to know each other is my absolute favorite. They take the time to become friends to know each other in a deeper bond and connection which is what made me love them more. Loved the way Luca had Novas back and stood up for himself too. My heart broke for them both. For Nova for loosing her parents and her feelings so alone in the world like she had to cling to her one and only family members left and doing anything not to upset him in the same time making herself unhappy. For Luca feeling like he is always putting up a front for everyone and for having his parents but both failing him as parents. This was a sweet love story that will definitely have you laughing so hard but if you have ever read any of this authors books then you know they are the best and this one is no different. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the next in the series. Highly recommend.
I loved this book it was fun and sweet. Nova and Luca are amazing! I mean couldn’t they be more perfect for each other. The banter and chemistry was off the charts. I loved the baby giraffe cup thing it was fun and a way to let Nova to let her guard down. The way they actually get to know each other is my absolute favorite. They take the time to become friends to know each other in a deeper bond and connection which is what made me love them more. Loved the way Luca had Novas back and stood up for himself too. My heart broke for them both. For Nova for loosing her parents and her feelings so alone in the world like she had to cling to her one and only family members left and doing anything not to upset him in the same time making herself unhappy. For Luca feeling like he is always putting up a front for everyone and for having his parents but both failing him as parents. This was a sweet love story that will definitely have you laughing so hard but if you have ever read any of this authors books then you know they are the best and this one is no different. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the next in the series. Highly recommend.
June 18, 2025
DNF at 78%.
Likes:
Luca
His “Nova’s Bedroom Survival Guide”
Nugget’s 5 seconds of fame.
Dislikes:
Everything else.
I’m telling myself that this unedited version was put on KU by mistake. The fact that “hit me with your best shot” is mentioned a couple times also makes me wonder if the author meant to swap this and book one’s title but…forgot? didn’t care? didn’t notice? Idk, it was just weird that the first in the series title was mentioned more in this book.
The editing was nonexistent. There were way too many mistakes. One second he’s taken her leggings off, the next she’s taking them off…all within a couple sentences. Some of the text thread was off to me. Like Nova sent Luca something, but his response had her name like she responded. There were 3 sentences in a row that had bro, Roman Empire, and rent-free in them. The gen z slang felt so forced.
I enjoyed Hit Me With Your Best Shot enough to go straight into this one. Don’t make the same mistake I did.
Likes:
Luca
His “Nova’s Bedroom Survival Guide”
Nugget’s 5 seconds of fame.
Dislikes:
Everything else.
I’m telling myself that this unedited version was put on KU by mistake. The fact that “hit me with your best shot” is mentioned a couple times also makes me wonder if the author meant to swap this and book one’s title but…forgot? didn’t care? didn’t notice? Idk, it was just weird that the first in the series title was mentioned more in this book.
The editing was nonexistent. There were way too many mistakes. One second he’s taken her leggings off, the next she’s taking them off…all within a couple sentences. Some of the text thread was off to me. Like Nova sent Luca something, but his response had her name like she responded. There were 3 sentences in a row that had bro, Roman Empire, and rent-free in them. The gen z slang felt so forced.
I enjoyed Hit Me With Your Best Shot enough to go straight into this one. Don’t make the same mistake I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2025
I have been looking forward to Nova and Luca's book ever since I read her epilogue tucked at the back of Hit Me With Your Best Shot. And Sara Ney did not disappoint!
Unlucky in love, Nova didn't quite know what to do when she matched with her brother's teammate, Luca, on a dating app. At first, she thought she was being catfished, so she was definitely surprised to discover that it was indeed Luca himself on the app. Their relationship progressed quite quickly, and I loved the witty banter, the flirty text exchanges, and the hilarity of Luca and Nova sharing custody of a giraffe cup from Rainforest Cafe.
I knew this was going to be a brother's best friend book where said brother warns his teammates not to date his sister. What I wasn't expecting was to feel so much for Luca as Nova insists on keeping their relationship a secret. I loved that he wasn't afraid to share his feelings with her, and insist that he deserved more than her lying about who they are to each other. Most books have the guy making the Grand Gesture after an argument, but it's Nova who goes big in this story to apologize to Luca for downplaying what he means to her… complete with landing herself in hockey jail. It's a thing.
I loved Gio in all his overprotective glory as a side character in this story, and seeing him and Austin as parents. I can't wait for Poppy's story!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Unlucky in love, Nova didn't quite know what to do when she matched with her brother's teammate, Luca, on a dating app. At first, she thought she was being catfished, so she was definitely surprised to discover that it was indeed Luca himself on the app. Their relationship progressed quite quickly, and I loved the witty banter, the flirty text exchanges, and the hilarity of Luca and Nova sharing custody of a giraffe cup from Rainforest Cafe.
I knew this was going to be a brother's best friend book where said brother warns his teammates not to date his sister. What I wasn't expecting was to feel so much for Luca as Nova insists on keeping their relationship a secret. I loved that he wasn't afraid to share his feelings with her, and insist that he deserved more than her lying about who they are to each other. Most books have the guy making the Grand Gesture after an argument, but it's Nova who goes big in this story to apologize to Luca for downplaying what he means to her… complete with landing herself in hockey jail. It's a thing.
I loved Gio in all his overprotective glory as a side character in this story, and seeing him and Austin as parents. I can't wait for Poppy's story!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
June 10, 2025
oh Luca... that man. I tell you. He is something really special.
Nova and Luca's story is a quirky mix of endearing ,amusing, heartfelt, and a little frustrating.
Nova is a little butt hurt and stubborn, but under that snark is a sweet centre just begging to be swept off of her feet. she's relatable, a little messy, and just down to earth.
Luca is the husband everyone wished they had. Sweet, thoughtful.. A little goofy and a whole lot of sexy. He knew what he wanted and went all in.
She was guarded whilst he was wide open, but together, they made a picture-perfect sweet couple that tickled all my pickles. The banter was next level with the chemistry serving EVERY.DAMN.TIME. They had me laughing, feeling all giddy and just wholy wanting them to be right. They literally were the perfect match balancing eachother alone the way until you couldn't imagine them not being a them.
As always, Sara had me laughing till my belly hurt, swooning and wishing that I could be there in that book physically getting to see these crazy characters and their journey evolve. It's always a pleasure reading her stories, and this is certainly not different.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR POPPY'S STORY.
Nova and Luca's story is a quirky mix of endearing ,amusing, heartfelt, and a little frustrating.
Nova is a little butt hurt and stubborn, but under that snark is a sweet centre just begging to be swept off of her feet. she's relatable, a little messy, and just down to earth.
Luca is the husband everyone wished they had. Sweet, thoughtful.. A little goofy and a whole lot of sexy. He knew what he wanted and went all in.
She was guarded whilst he was wide open, but together, they made a picture-perfect sweet couple that tickled all my pickles. The banter was next level with the chemistry serving EVERY.DAMN.TIME. They had me laughing, feeling all giddy and just wholy wanting them to be right. They literally were the perfect match balancing eachother alone the way until you couldn't imagine them not being a them.
As always, Sara had me laughing till my belly hurt, swooning and wishing that I could be there in that book physically getting to see these crazy characters and their journey evolve. It's always a pleasure reading her stories, and this is certainly not different.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR POPPY'S STORY.
June 7, 2025
OMG! I loved this book SO much - it’s just as awesome as the first book in the series. It’s fun, flirty, sassy, hilarious and steamy!
Nova is Gio Montagalo’s twin sister from book #1 and a side character who captured my interest because she just seemed like so much fun. When she matches with Luca Babineaux, her brother’s teammate, on a dating app the hilarity begins with them exchanging hilarious messages.
Luca is a sexy golden retriever who is emotionally stable, knows he wants to settle down and have a family, plus he freely admits he’s wanted Nova for a few years since he first saw her at an event with her brother.
Some of the scenes in the book had me gasping for breath because I was laughing so hard. Let me just say that Nova doesn’t multi-task with texting with her wild and crazy BFF while also texting with Luca! Luca’s response is perfect when he learns her lady parts are haunted!
I loved everything about this book and am eager for BFF Poppy’s story to come out next.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Nova is Gio Montagalo’s twin sister from book #1 and a side character who captured my interest because she just seemed like so much fun. When she matches with Luca Babineaux, her brother’s teammate, on a dating app the hilarity begins with them exchanging hilarious messages.
Luca is a sexy golden retriever who is emotionally stable, knows he wants to settle down and have a family, plus he freely admits he’s wanted Nova for a few years since he first saw her at an event with her brother.
Some of the scenes in the book had me gasping for breath because I was laughing so hard. Let me just say that Nova doesn’t multi-task with texting with her wild and crazy BFF while also texting with Luca! Luca’s response is perfect when he learns her lady parts are haunted!
I loved everything about this book and am eager for BFF Poppy’s story to come out next.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
June 5, 2025
Wishful dreaming!
A true Sara Ney book with giggles, chemistry and a couple who are meant to be together! Nova is the sister of Gio Montagalo, a Houston Baddies hockey player and has been told never to date any of his team mates. Looking at men in a dating app, she comes across Luca Babineux, Gio's teammate and swipes on him! Flirty texts are banded about and a secret relationship ensues! What happens when the feelings morph into something strong and undeniable? Can they be honest with each other and with Gio?
This was a great read with fun dates and plenty of chemistry. Can't wait for Poppy's book
A true Sara Ney book with giggles, chemistry and a couple who are meant to be together! Nova is the sister of Gio Montagalo, a Houston Baddies hockey player and has been told never to date any of his team mates. Looking at men in a dating app, she comes across Luca Babineux, Gio's teammate and swipes on him! Flirty texts are banded about and a secret relationship ensues! What happens when the feelings morph into something strong and undeniable? Can they be honest with each other and with Gio?
This was a great read with fun dates and plenty of chemistry. Can't wait for Poppy's book
June 7, 2025
Oh my gosh, I loved this book so much Luca and Nova were absolutely amazing , I loved how they have always liked one another and felt like they really couldn’t act on it because of nervous brother in the relationship that he has with Luca being a teammate, I love how their relationship evolved into nova really opening her heart and stepping out of her comfort zone into something that she really was looking for in life, which was love, i am absolutely loving this series sooo much, I highly recommend everyone reading this book. Luca and nova are so cute.
![Profile Image for Liz [reads books].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1668868475i/23423026._UY200_CR19,0,200,200_.jpg)
June 5, 2025
slow burn, forbidden but fun romance between teammate and teammate's sister
June 2, 2025
I know when Sara Ney releases a book, I will be loving the quirky banter, the laugh out loud moments and the story. Can't Always Get What You Want is just that. It follows Luca and Nova as they flirt, secret date and fall in love.
Luca is a professional hockey player and tired of the dating scene. He is also Nova's brother's teammate.
Nova is tired of the same guys. She isn't supposed to date her brother's teammates.
They both end up on a dating app, have some flirty banter and the rest is history. This story will have you laughing, smiling and feeling good. Their connection and chemistry are apparent from the start. I just loved the texting between them. It's a perfect rom com!
I loved the first book where we met Nova's brother and was so excited for this book.
It's a brother's teammate, secret dating, he falls first, forbidden hockey romance. I can't wait for the next book that tells Poppy's story.
Luca is a professional hockey player and tired of the dating scene. He is also Nova's brother's teammate.
Nova is tired of the same guys. She isn't supposed to date her brother's teammates.
They both end up on a dating app, have some flirty banter and the rest is history. This story will have you laughing, smiling and feeling good. Their connection and chemistry are apparent from the start. I just loved the texting between them. It's a perfect rom com!
I loved the first book where we met Nova's brother and was so excited for this book.
It's a brother's teammate, secret dating, he falls first, forbidden hockey romance. I can't wait for the next book that tells Poppy's story.
May 27, 2025
This one was utterly delightful and a laugh-out-loud romance! it was full of swoony charm, sizzling tension, and some of the best banter I’ve read in a while. The chemistry between the MCs practically jumps off the page... and don’t even get me started on the texting! Flirty, fast, and downright hilarious, their messages and bantering had me grinning like a total goofball.
If you’re a fan of secret romance, off-limits crushes, and characters who are as lovable as they are complicated, this one will absolutely steal your heart. The writing is effortless and fun, making it impossible to put down. It's light, heartfelt, and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you're already a fan of the series or diving in fresh, prepare to fall head over heels. This book is a total win. 🏒❤️📱
If you’re a fan of secret romance, off-limits crushes, and characters who are as lovable as they are complicated, this one will absolutely steal your heart. The writing is effortless and fun, making it impossible to put down. It's light, heartfelt, and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you're already a fan of the series or diving in fresh, prepare to fall head over heels. This book is a total win. 🏒❤️📱
May 30, 2025
I was looking forward to reading this book after the epilogue of book 1. These two have a nice banter. Luca is so swoony and funny that I couldn’t stop reading. And it’s nice to see that once in a while the girl in books makes a mess and has to make a grand gesture.
I found myself laughing many times while reading this book and now I can’t wait to see if Poppy in book 3 is going to keep up with it.
Thank you The Author Agency for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
I found myself laughing many times while reading this book and now I can’t wait to see if Poppy in book 3 is going to keep up with it.
Thank you The Author Agency for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
June 3, 2025
The first book in this new series, Hit Me With Your Best Shot, came out last year and I was eager to read about Gio’s sister getting her own HEA. Luca was a total sweetie with a fun banter game. There was the usual thing you get in a story where the love interest is on a team with a brother. Gio has told all his teammates that his sister Nova is off limits. And of course he’s told her to stay away from them as well.
The match on the dating app starts the whole relationship with some fun back and forth and a first meet up that is a NON date. At the Rainforest Cafe. Do they still have those? Those were always fun to take kids to back when they had them here. A second date starts at a grocery store with an “accidental” meet-up, followed by going back and cooking at Nova’s place.
So most of this is keeping the romance a secret, which means both from her brother, but also obviously from everyone because if a picture got out to the press, of course her brother would find out. This would also be a he falls first story, as he is the first one to say it and really is ready to show it and tell her brother and get it out in the open. It is understandable why Nova is unsure about going further based on her past relationships, as well as what happened to her and Gio’s parents. There was a little bit about Luca’s family in the story too, so it is also easy to see why he is at first a little hesitant, even if he gets over it pretty quickly.
Like pretty much every other story by this author, once the story gets steamy, we get a lot of that, almost always just right there on the page, so if that’s not your thing, this might not be for you. I’m also noticing that this latest series has completely different types of guys than her earlier series had. I mean I guess when you look at the series title from before, D-bag, you kind of get that, lol. And while I do love a guy like this, I also have a little trouble with this many guys being softies and not at all like you’d expect the ego of a pro-hockey player/athlete to be? It’s almost a little too easy for me? I also would have liked a little more of Luca’s background maybe? I don’t know if I missed it maybe, but I’d have loved some more on him like we got from Gio and Nova’s side.
I am really enjoying this series though, love this hockey team and am very excited to see Nova’s best friend Poppy’s story coming in book 3!
The match on the dating app starts the whole relationship with some fun back and forth and a first meet up that is a NON date. At the Rainforest Cafe. Do they still have those? Those were always fun to take kids to back when they had them here. A second date starts at a grocery store with an “accidental” meet-up, followed by going back and cooking at Nova’s place.
So most of this is keeping the romance a secret, which means both from her brother, but also obviously from everyone because if a picture got out to the press, of course her brother would find out. This would also be a he falls first story, as he is the first one to say it and really is ready to show it and tell her brother and get it out in the open. It is understandable why Nova is unsure about going further based on her past relationships, as well as what happened to her and Gio’s parents. There was a little bit about Luca’s family in the story too, so it is also easy to see why he is at first a little hesitant, even if he gets over it pretty quickly.
Like pretty much every other story by this author, once the story gets steamy, we get a lot of that, almost always just right there on the page, so if that’s not your thing, this might not be for you. I’m also noticing that this latest series has completely different types of guys than her earlier series had. I mean I guess when you look at the series title from before, D-bag, you kind of get that, lol. And while I do love a guy like this, I also have a little trouble with this many guys being softies and not at all like you’d expect the ego of a pro-hockey player/athlete to be? It’s almost a little too easy for me? I also would have liked a little more of Luca’s background maybe? I don’t know if I missed it maybe, but I’d have loved some more on him like we got from Gio and Nova’s side.
I am really enjoying this series though, love this hockey team and am very excited to see Nova’s best friend Poppy’s story coming in book 3!
August 23, 2025
I really like this author, but this book was full of typos and inconsistencies with an overly predictable storyline. Articles of clothing changed mid-page. I hates the use of text messaging icons on the page. And the author got confused about who was talking, mis-ascribing comments. Overall, this book needed a better editor to help with major issues.
Also, the author had limited to no knowledge of Houston, which keep pulling me out of the narrative. It's never cold here just cool enough to wear a jacket sometimes in December and January. Lakes and ponds cannot freeze. The characters should be complaining about the heat and humidity. We only wear sweatshirts because we over AC the indoors.
Worse yet, I despised the female lead character. She came across as dumb, immature and annoying. The romance felt a bit rushed. There wasn't any real humor in it. And it felt like the book would never end. Not Sara's best work.
Also, the author had limited to no knowledge of Houston, which keep pulling me out of the narrative. It's never cold here just cool enough to wear a jacket sometimes in December and January. Lakes and ponds cannot freeze. The characters should be complaining about the heat and humidity. We only wear sweatshirts because we over AC the indoors.
Worse yet, I despised the female lead character. She came across as dumb, immature and annoying. The romance felt a bit rushed. There wasn't any real humor in it. And it felt like the book would never end. Not Sara's best work.
June 4, 2025
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
Can't Always Get What You Want is my favorite of the series so far. Luca & Nova have a very sweet love story with a touch of angst and family trauma that I loved reading. They are very interesting characters and much deeper than the ones in the previous book, and I loved that. I was also very happy because Sara Ney gave me a glimpse into Gio & Austin's lives, which melted my heart even more.
Nova is Gio's sister and their relationship is one of the funniest and most beautiful I've ever read, which is why I didn't expect Nova to have such complex, and even negative, feelings towards her most important bond. What I did expect was to read about a Nova tired of her twin brother's overprotective attitude, and I have to say I really liked the direction the author gave this part of the plot.
Luca is a sweetheart; his personality is coky when he's on the ice rink, but in everyday life, he's an insecure, vulnerable, and very sweet boy who has been in love with Nova since the first time he saw her. Luca really touched me with his feelings about his parents, and I really wish the author had expanded on this part of his character's arc because I think it was something that was only briefly mentioned and was a huge part of Luca and his personality. I also loved that Sara gave us a brave guy who isn't afraid to speak his mind, how he feels, and show Nova how important she is to him.
🏒Luca: 5/5
🏒Nova: 3/5
🏒Plot: 4/5
🏒Love story: 4.5/5
🏒Secondary characters: 5/5
🏒Universe: 4/5
🏒Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Can't Always Get What You Want es mi favorito de la serie hasta ahora. Luca & Nova tienen una historia de amor muy dulce con un toque de dolor y trauma familiar que me encantó leer, ellos son personajes muy interesantes y mucho más profundos que los del libro anterior, y eso me encantó, además fui muy feliz porque Sara Ney me dio un vistazo a la vida de Gio & Austin, lo cual me derritió el corazón aún más.
Nova es hermana de Gio y su relación es una de las más divertidas y hermosas que he leído, por eso es que no esperaba que Nova tuviera sentimientos tan complejos, e incluso negativos hacia su vinculo más importante. Lo que si esperaba era leer a una Nova cansada de la actitud sobre protectora de su hermano mellizo y tengo que decir que me gustó mucho la dirección que la autora le dio a esta parte de la trama.
Luca es un sol, su personalidad es engreída cuando está en la pista de hielo, pero en la vida común es un chico inseguro, vulnerable, muy dulce y que ha estado enamorado de Nova desde la primera vez que la vio. Luca me conmovió mucho con sus sentimientos sobre sus padres, y me hubiera gustado mucho que la autora ampliara más esta parte de la trama del personaje porque creo que fue algo que solo se mencionó por encima y era una gran parte de Luca y su personalidad. También, me encantó que Sara nos diera a un chico valiente que no tiene miedo de decir lo que piensa, siente y de demostrarle a Nova lo importante que es para él.
🏒Luca: 5/5
🏒Nova: 3/5
🏒Trama: 4/5
🏒Historia de amor: 4.5/5
🏒Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🏒Universo: 4/5
🏒Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
Can't Always Get What You Want is my favorite of the series so far. Luca & Nova have a very sweet love story with a touch of angst and family trauma that I loved reading. They are very interesting characters and much deeper than the ones in the previous book, and I loved that. I was also very happy because Sara Ney gave me a glimpse into Gio & Austin's lives, which melted my heart even more.
Nova is Gio's sister and their relationship is one of the funniest and most beautiful I've ever read, which is why I didn't expect Nova to have such complex, and even negative, feelings towards her most important bond. What I did expect was to read about a Nova tired of her twin brother's overprotective attitude, and I have to say I really liked the direction the author gave this part of the plot.
Luca is a sweetheart; his personality is coky when he's on the ice rink, but in everyday life, he's an insecure, vulnerable, and very sweet boy who has been in love with Nova since the first time he saw her. Luca really touched me with his feelings about his parents, and I really wish the author had expanded on this part of his character's arc because I think it was something that was only briefly mentioned and was a huge part of Luca and his personality. I also loved that Sara gave us a brave guy who isn't afraid to speak his mind, how he feels, and show Nova how important she is to him.
🏒Luca: 5/5
🏒Nova: 3/5
🏒Plot: 4/5
🏒Love story: 4.5/5
🏒Secondary characters: 5/5
🏒Universe: 4/5
🏒Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Can't Always Get What You Want es mi favorito de la serie hasta ahora. Luca & Nova tienen una historia de amor muy dulce con un toque de dolor y trauma familiar que me encantó leer, ellos son personajes muy interesantes y mucho más profundos que los del libro anterior, y eso me encantó, además fui muy feliz porque Sara Ney me dio un vistazo a la vida de Gio & Austin, lo cual me derritió el corazón aún más.
Nova es hermana de Gio y su relación es una de las más divertidas y hermosas que he leído, por eso es que no esperaba que Nova tuviera sentimientos tan complejos, e incluso negativos hacia su vinculo más importante. Lo que si esperaba era leer a una Nova cansada de la actitud sobre protectora de su hermano mellizo y tengo que decir que me gustó mucho la dirección que la autora le dio a esta parte de la trama.
Luca es un sol, su personalidad es engreída cuando está en la pista de hielo, pero en la vida común es un chico inseguro, vulnerable, muy dulce y que ha estado enamorado de Nova desde la primera vez que la vio. Luca me conmovió mucho con sus sentimientos sobre sus padres, y me hubiera gustado mucho que la autora ampliara más esta parte de la trama del personaje porque creo que fue algo que solo se mencionó por encima y era una gran parte de Luca y su personalidad. También, me encantó que Sara nos diera a un chico valiente que no tiene miedo de decir lo que piensa, siente y de demostrarle a Nova lo importante que es para él.
🏒Luca: 5/5
🏒Nova: 3/5
🏒Trama: 4/5
🏒Historia de amor: 4.5/5
🏒Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🏒Universo: 4/5
🏒Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
July 13, 2026
Book 33 of 2026 -✅! Thank you to NetGalley, Sara Ney and Tantor Media for an ALC of Can't Always Get What You Want by Sara Ney, narrated by Alexander Cendese & Alexa Elmy in exchange for my honest review.
In honor of Summer Romance Bingo at the Ripped Bodice, I’ve been reading more romance/rom-coms than usual (if one can believe it). I was drawn to Sara Ney’s Can’t Always Get What You Want because of the cute cover, and the fact that this book took place in Houston.
This teammate’s sibling, secret relationship, he falls first romance the 2nd book in the Houston Baddies series by Sara Ney and centers around hockey player, Luca Babineaux and Nova Montagalo, sister of Gio Montagalo, another player on the Houston Baddies team. Gio has strong feelings about Nova potentially dating anyone on his team, and makes his feelings very clear, but when Nova & Luca match on a dating app, all rules in the Montagalo siblings world go out the window. Nova and Luca start to date in secret, and while Luca falls first and wants to go public with their relationship, Nova doesn’t feel comfortable with it. As their relationship progresses, Nova’s must figure out how important it is to follow her own desires of living out in the open with her relationship in spite of her brother’s feelings about dating teammates.
I could definitely see this book having a devoted following as it’s part of an interconnected stand-alone series, but I didn’t particularly feel a strong connection to it. While I was excited about this book taking place in my hometown, it didn’t seem like it needed to take place in Houston or indicate that research was done to really set the scene. I also didn’t necessarily find myself rooting for the couple, and found Gio’s strong stance on Nova’s dating life a bit frustrating, and unreasonable. I enjoyed Alexa Elmy’s narration of Nova’s voice, though I personally thought there might have been a better fit for Luca’s voice.
2.75/5 ⭐️ overall & 3.5/5 🌶️. There are some open door scenes in this New Adult Romance. While the book was released in 2025, the ALC of Can’t Always Get What You Want will be released on 7/14/26. #NetGalley #CantAlwaysGetWhatYouWant
In honor of Summer Romance Bingo at the Ripped Bodice, I’ve been reading more romance/rom-coms than usual (if one can believe it). I was drawn to Sara Ney’s Can’t Always Get What You Want because of the cute cover, and the fact that this book took place in Houston.
This teammate’s sibling, secret relationship, he falls first romance the 2nd book in the Houston Baddies series by Sara Ney and centers around hockey player, Luca Babineaux and Nova Montagalo, sister of Gio Montagalo, another player on the Houston Baddies team. Gio has strong feelings about Nova potentially dating anyone on his team, and makes his feelings very clear, but when Nova & Luca match on a dating app, all rules in the Montagalo siblings world go out the window. Nova and Luca start to date in secret, and while Luca falls first and wants to go public with their relationship, Nova doesn’t feel comfortable with it. As their relationship progresses, Nova’s must figure out how important it is to follow her own desires of living out in the open with her relationship in spite of her brother’s feelings about dating teammates.
I could definitely see this book having a devoted following as it’s part of an interconnected stand-alone series, but I didn’t particularly feel a strong connection to it. While I was excited about this book taking place in my hometown, it didn’t seem like it needed to take place in Houston or indicate that research was done to really set the scene. I also didn’t necessarily find myself rooting for the couple, and found Gio’s strong stance on Nova’s dating life a bit frustrating, and unreasonable. I enjoyed Alexa Elmy’s narration of Nova’s voice, though I personally thought there might have been a better fit for Luca’s voice.
2.75/5 ⭐️ overall & 3.5/5 🌶️. There are some open door scenes in this New Adult Romance. While the book was released in 2025, the ALC of Can’t Always Get What You Want will be released on 7/14/26. #NetGalley #CantAlwaysGetWhatYouWant
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2026
A Promising Story That Didn’t Work for Me in Audio
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ALC.
DNF at 10%. ⭐⭐⭐
This rating reflects my experience with the audiobook rather than the story as a whole.
The premise immediately caught my attention, and I enjoyed the setup enough to want this audiobook to work. From what I experienced, the writing itself showed promise, and I had no issues following the story or understanding the characters.
Unfortunately, the audiobook narration ultimately kept me from fully engaging with the story. While the female narrator’s performance wasn’t my favorite, the male narrator was the biggest challenge for me. His delivery often felt much more animated than the laid-back version of the MMC that had been established through the FMC’s perspective, making it difficult for me to reconcile the character between points of view. I also noticed occasional breathing and mouth sounds that pulled me out of the listening experience. I tried adjusting the playback speed several times, but I couldn’t find a setting where the narration clicked for me.
This was ultimately a DNF because the audiobook experience prevented me from connecting with the story—not because of the premise or the writing. I believe listeners who connect with these narration styles may have a very different experience than I did.
Who Should Listen
Listeners who enjoy dual narration and whose enjoyment isn’t significantly affected by narrator interpretation or performance style may have a much different experience. Based on the opening chapters, the story itself showed promise, even though the audiobook ultimately wasn’t the right fit for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ALC.
DNF at 10%. ⭐⭐⭐
This rating reflects my experience with the audiobook rather than the story as a whole.
The premise immediately caught my attention, and I enjoyed the setup enough to want this audiobook to work. From what I experienced, the writing itself showed promise, and I had no issues following the story or understanding the characters.
Unfortunately, the audiobook narration ultimately kept me from fully engaging with the story. While the female narrator’s performance wasn’t my favorite, the male narrator was the biggest challenge for me. His delivery often felt much more animated than the laid-back version of the MMC that had been established through the FMC’s perspective, making it difficult for me to reconcile the character between points of view. I also noticed occasional breathing and mouth sounds that pulled me out of the listening experience. I tried adjusting the playback speed several times, but I couldn’t find a setting where the narration clicked for me.
This was ultimately a DNF because the audiobook experience prevented me from connecting with the story—not because of the premise or the writing. I believe listeners who connect with these narration styles may have a very different experience than I did.
Who Should Listen
Listeners who enjoy dual narration and whose enjoyment isn’t significantly affected by narrator interpretation or performance style may have a much different experience. Based on the opening chapters, the story itself showed promise, even though the audiobook ultimately wasn’t the right fit for me.
July 4, 2026
Can’t Always Get What You Want by Sara Ney
Book Two of Houston Baddies
Audiobook narrated by Alexander Cendese and Alexa Elmy
Fun hockey romance
Lots of flirting in the lead up to these two actually getting together
At times the characters felt immature with their banter (this may have been because of the narrators’ voices). How old are these MCs anyway?
People facetiming in public - the worst
Mavis even worse
Some editing/plot repetition - the do you want children conversation twice.
Brothers teammate, secret dating,
Thanks to NetGalley, Tantor Media, and Sara Ney for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Book Two of Houston Baddies
Audiobook narrated by Alexander Cendese and Alexa Elmy
Fun hockey romance
Lots of flirting in the lead up to these two actually getting together
At times the characters felt immature with their banter (this may have been because of the narrators’ voices). How old are these MCs anyway?
People facetiming in public - the worst
Mavis even worse
Some editing/plot repetition - the do you want children conversation twice.
Brothers teammate, secret dating,
Thanks to NetGalley, Tantor Media, and Sara Ney for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 5, 2025
Would have been 5 stars but there was a lot of smut I felt wasn't necessary tbh. I like the rest, very cute book. A bit mileniall, but cute still!
June 8, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ It was fun and spicy. A good follow up to the first book although there were some inconsistencies with hockey from the first book but whatever lol I’ll keep reading the series because Luca was a green flag boyfriend and it was a good time
June 10, 2025
wanted to like this book but I couldn’t get over the numerous glaring errors. this book needs a heavy edit!
examples off the top of my head:
-clothing constantly changes. there’s a whole scene where Luca picks out a tight polo shirt for a date. a few pages later, he’s in a hoodie
-there is one especially egregious error where she’s wearing leggings and then like TWO SENTENCES LATER she’s in jeans. and no, I don’t think the author meant jeggings
-one scene he slides her leggings off… and the next page, she’s taking her leggings off
-he magically knows she’s on BC and had tests done but there is ZERO reference to them having this conversation. it’s almost like the previous chapter was cut off
-I finally gave up the book when it jumped to her attending a hockey game. like what was the time lapse?? why is there no explanation for how long it had been since the abrupt ending of the previous chapter???
this stuff might sound nitpicky but it’s SLOPPY and frustrating and if I’d paid for this book (instead of getting it off KU), I’d literally return it for a refund.
do better.
examples off the top of my head:
-clothing constantly changes. there’s a whole scene where Luca picks out a tight polo shirt for a date. a few pages later, he’s in a hoodie
-there is one especially egregious error where she’s wearing leggings and then like TWO SENTENCES LATER she’s in jeans. and no, I don’t think the author meant jeggings
-one scene he slides her leggings off… and the next page, she’s taking her leggings off
-he magically knows she’s on BC and had tests done but there is ZERO reference to them having this conversation. it’s almost like the previous chapter was cut off
-I finally gave up the book when it jumped to her attending a hockey game. like what was the time lapse?? why is there no explanation for how long it had been since the abrupt ending of the previous chapter???
this stuff might sound nitpicky but it’s SLOPPY and frustrating and if I’d paid for this book (instead of getting it off KU), I’d literally return it for a refund.
do better.
June 2, 2025
Amazon
Luca's been fascinated by his teammate's twin sister, Nova, since he first saw her, but he knows better than to even go there with her. But then the dating app happens and now they're in a secret relationship that he's having a hard time keeping secret. He wants the world to know he's dating Nova, that she's his. He knows Gio won't be happy, but he can't keep his feelings for Nova in the dark any longer.
Nova knows she's not supposed to date her twin brother Gio's teammates, but somehow being with Luca has her not caring too much about it. Not so much that she wants to tell Gio or anything, but she can't stop seeing Luca. He's sweet, he's insanely gorgeous, and she feels her best with him. But if she wants to keep that feeling, she'll need to show Luca he means as much to her as she does to him, take that leap of faith and go public.
These two are so freaking adorable together! Funny, snarky and burning up my Kindle with their chemistry, I don't think I've had this much fun in a long time as I did reading as sassy but vulnerable Nova and sweet cinnamon roll Luca fell in love. Nova's friend Poppy is next to fall in love. I know she's gonna make him work for it, she was pure comedy, probably even sassier than Nova, so whoa to the man who falls in love with her.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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June 18, 2025
love love love
The banter will have you hooked from the start. Please be ready to be smiling and smirking while reading this story!
The banter will have you hooked from the start. Please be ready to be smiling and smirking while reading this story!
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